The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed is backing the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to stop illegal mining (galamsey) in the country within five months.
Illegal mining over the years has caused havoc to the country’s river bodies, lands, and even forest reserves.
In the lead-up to the 2024 General Election, conversations on illegal mining were rife especially after then President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was accused of being complicit in galamsey due to his government's failure to deal with the menace.
Some political analysts believe the past government’s inability to stop galamsey resulted in their defeat, bringing into power the NDC government led by President John Dramani Mahama.
While the activities of galamsey remain an issue of concern, many Ghanaians are expecting the new government to take action to end the destruction that is being caused in the process.
Speaking to Starr FM, Tamale Central MP Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed has assured that the government will clamp down on galamsey.
He is confident that in the next five months, activities of galamsey would have been halted.
“Government should be able to halt galamsey within five months,” Mr. Murtala Muhammed stated.
Meanwhile, the new Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey has vowed to ensure illegal mining in the region becomes a thing of the past.
Speaking at a staff engagement at the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) after assuming office, she stressed that there will be only room for responsible mining.
“We would have to make sure our people mine responsibly such that our forests, lands and water bodies are protected,” the Minister said.